Nasturtiums are a popular choice for gardeners looking to add a pop of colour to their outdoor space. These beautiful flowers are not only visually appealing, but they also offer a range of benefits that make them the perfect addition to any garden. From attracting pollinators to repelling pests, nasturtiums are a versatile and easy-to-grow plant that can enhance the overall health and beauty of your garden.
One of the main benefits of nasturtiums is their ability to attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies. These insects play a vital role in the pollination of plants, which is essential for the growth and reproduction of many fruits and vegetables. By planting nasturtiums in your garden, you can help to support the local ecosystem and ensure that your garden is thriving.
In addition to their pollinator-attracting properties, nasturtiums are also known for their ability to repel pests. These flowers contain a natural compound called linalool, which has been shown to deter insects such as aphids, whiteflies, and squash bugs. By planting nasturtiums alongside your other plants, you can help to protect them from damage and reduce the need for harmful pesticides.
Understanding Nasturtiums
Nasturtiums, scientifically known as Tropaeolum majus and Tropaeolum minus, are annual plants that are native to South America. They are popular among gardeners due to their bright and vibrant colours, including orange, yellow, white, and mahogany. Nasturtiums are also available in single and variegated varieties.
Nasturtiums are easy to grow and maintain, making them a perfect addition to any garden. They prefer full sun and well-drained soil. These plants can grow up to 12 inches in height and 18 inches in width. Nasturtiums are also known for their edible leaves and flowers, which have a peppery taste and can be used in salads and other dishes.
Nasturtiums are not only beautiful but also beneficial for the garden. They attract pollinators such as bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds. Additionally, nasturtiums are known to repel pests such as aphids and whiteflies, making them a natural pest control solution.
In terms of care, nasturtiums require minimal maintenance. They do not require fertilizers and can tolerate dry conditions. However, they are susceptible to root rot, so it is important not to overwater them.
In conclusion, nasturtiums are an excellent choice for gardeners looking for an easy-to-grow, colourful, and beneficial plant. With their edible leaves and flowers, they also provide a unique culinary experience.
Why Nasturtiums are Ideal for Your Garden
Nasturtiums are a great addition to any garden, and here’s why:
Easy to Grow
Nasturtiums are one of the easiest flowers to grow, making them a great choice for beginners and experienced gardeners alike. They can be planted in almost any type of soil, and they don’t require a lot of maintenance. They also have a long blooming period, which means you can enjoy their beauty for months on end.
Thrive in Poor Soil
If you have poor soil quality in your garden and are worried that few things will grow there, nasturtiums are a perfect choice. They not only thrive in poor soil, they prefer it. This is a species you can plant in depleted soil, and then allow to rot in the ground in fall.
Companion Plants
Nasturtiums are great companion plants because they can help protect other plants from pests and diseases. They also attract pollinators to the garden, which can help increase the yield of other plants.
Ground Cover
Nasturtiums can be used as ground cover, as they spread quickly and easily. They can help keep weeds at bay and retain moisture in the soil.
Containers, Pots, Window Boxes, and Hanging Baskets
Nasturtiums are perfect for containers, pots, window boxes, and hanging baskets. They have a trailing habit and can be trained to climb up fences or trail over the edges of containers. They add a splash of colour and fragrance to any outdoor space.
Beauty and Fragrance
Nasturtiums come in a range of fiery colours that add wonderful ornamental interest to any garden. They also have a lovely fragrance that can help to attract pollinators.
In summary, nasturtiums are an ideal addition to any garden. They are easy to grow, thrive in poor soil, make great companion plants, can be used as ground cover, and are perfect for containers, pots, window boxes, and hanging baskets. Plus, they add beauty and fragrance to any outdoor space.
The Edible Benefits of Nasturtiums
Nasturtiums are not only beautiful and easy to grow, but they are also edible and offer a range of health benefits. The leaves, flowers, and seeds of the plant are all edible, and they can be used in a variety of ways.
One of the most popular uses of nasturtiums is in salads. The leaves and flowers have a peppery taste that adds a nice kick to any salad. They can be used as a substitute for watercress or other greens. The flowers can also be used as a garnish to add a pop of colour to any dish.
Nasturtiums are also high in vitamin C, making them a great addition to any diet. The leaves and flowers can be eaten raw or cooked, and they can also be pickled or used to make tea.
The seeds of the nasturtium plant can also be eaten. They have a spicy, peppery flavour and can be used as a substitute for capers. They can be pickled or used in dressings and sauces.
Overall, nasturtiums are a versatile and tasty addition to any garden. They offer a range of health benefits and can be used in a variety of dishes.
Planting and Growing Nasturtiums
Nasturtiums are an easy-to-grow plant that can thrive in a variety of soil types. They can be planted in the spring, summer, or fall, depending on your location and climate. Here are some tips for planting and growing nasturtiums:
Soil
Nasturtiums can grow in both fertile and poor soil, but they prefer well-draining soil. If your soil is too compacted or clay-like, add some sand or compost to improve drainage. Nasturtiums also prefer slightly acidic soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.0.
Seeds
Nasturtium seeds can be planted directly into the soil, as they do not transplant well. Plant the seeds about 1/2 inch deep and 10-12 inches apart. Cover the seeds with soil and water well. Nasturtiums typically germinate within 7-10 days.
Planting
Nasturtiums prefer full sun, but they can also grow in partial shade. Plant them in an area that gets at least 6 hours of sunlight per day. Water the plants regularly, but do not over-water as this can lead to root rot. Nasturtiums also do not require much fertilizer, as they can thrive in poor soil.
Growing Nasturtiums
Nasturtiums are easy to grow and require little maintenance. They can grow up to 12 inches tall and spread up to 18 inches wide. Prune the plants occasionally to encourage bushier growth. Deadhead the flowers regularly to promote more blooms.
Nasturtiums are an excellent addition to any garden. They are easy to plant and grow, and they can attract beneficial insects to your garden. With a little bit of care and attention, you can enjoy beautiful blooms all season long.
Nasturtiums as Companion Plants
Nasturtiums are known for their ability to repel pests, making them a valuable addition to any garden as a companion plant. The strong scent of nasturtium leaves and flowers acts as a deterrent for many garden pests, including aphids and flea beetles.
When planted alongside vegetables such as cabbage, beans, tomatoes, broccoli, lettuce, strawberries, cucumbers, and pumpkins, nasturtiums can help to protect them from pests. The pungent odor of nasturtiums masks the scent of the vegetables, making it difficult for pests to locate them.
In addition to repelling pests, nasturtiums also attract beneficial insects such as ladybugs and hoverflies. These insects prey on pests, helping to keep the garden free from harmful insects.
Nasturtiums also have a symbiotic relationship with certain vegetables. When planted alongside beans, for example, they can help to fix nitrogen in the soil, which is essential for healthy bean growth.
Overall, nasturtiums are a versatile and beneficial companion plant that can help to protect and nourish a variety of vegetables in the garden.
Nasturtiums and Pest Control
Nasturtiums are a great addition to any garden, not only for their beautiful flowers and leaves but also for their ability to control pests. They are a natural pest repellent that can help keep your garden healthy and free from infestations. Here are some ways nasturtiums can help with pest control:
Trap Crop
Nasturtiums can act as a trap crop for pests like aphids and slugs. These insects are attracted to nasturtiums and will feed on them instead of other plants in your garden. This can help protect your other plants from infestation while keeping the pests under control.
Beneficial Insects
Nasturtiums also attract beneficial insects like ladybugs and hoverflies, which feed on aphids and other harmful pests. By planting nasturtiums in your garden, you can create a natural habitat for these helpful insects and encourage them to stay.
Repellent
The pungent scent of nasturtiums is unappealing to many pests, making them a natural repellent. Planting nasturtiums around your garden can help keep pests like aphids and whiteflies at bay.
Overall, nasturtiums are a valuable addition to any garden, providing both beauty and pest control benefits. By using them as a trap crop, attracting beneficial insects, and repelling harmful pests, you can keep your garden healthy and thriving.
Attracting Wildlife with Nasturtiums
Nasturtiums are not only beautiful, but they can also attract a variety of wildlife to your garden. They are particularly effective at attracting pollinators, bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds.
Pollinators such as bees and butterflies play a crucial role in the ecosystem by helping plants reproduce. Nasturtiums are known to attract these beneficial insects, which can help pollinate other plants in your garden. By planting nasturtiums, you are not only adding beauty to your garden but also helping to support the local ecosystem.
In addition to pollinators, nasturtiums can also attract bees. Bees are important for the production of many crops, and their populations have been declining in recent years. By planting nasturtiums, you can help support bee populations and ensure that they continue to play a vital role in our food system.
Butterflies are also attracted to nasturtiums. These beautiful insects not only add to the beauty of your garden but also play an important role in pollination. By planting nasturtiums, you can help support butterfly populations and ensure that they continue to thrive.
Finally, nasturtiums are also known to attract hummingbirds. These tiny birds are important pollinators and add a unique element to any garden. By planting nasturtiums, you can help attract these beautiful birds and provide them with a source of food.
In summary, nasturtiums are the perfect addition to any garden if you want to attract wildlife. They are particularly effective at attracting pollinators, bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds, all of which play important roles in the ecosystem. By planting nasturtiums, you can help support local wildlife populations and add beauty to your garden at the same time.
Harvesting and Using Nasturtiums
Nasturtiums are not only a beautiful addition to any garden, but they are also a versatile plant that can be used in a variety of ways. From their vibrant flowers to their peppery leaves, every part of the nasturtium plant can be harvested and used in the kitchen.
Harvesting
The first leaves of nasturtium can be harvested about 4 to 6 weeks after sowing and then throughout the entire cultivation period. The leaves are a delicious addition to salads or can be eaten raw on bread and butter. Their antibacterial properties ensure a slightly pungent taste.
The flowers of the nasturtium plant can be harvested when they are at their fullest and brightest. This usually happens in late summer or early fall, when the days are still long and the nights are cool. Gather nasturtium blossoms in the morning, when they are plumped up with moisture. Snip away the base of each blossom, which may taste bitter.
The seed pods of the nasturtium plant can also be harvested and pickled in vinegar to make a tasty condiment. The seeds themselves can be used as a substitute for capers.
Using
Nasturtiums are commonly used as a garnish for salads, soups, and other dishes. The flowers can be used whole or the petals can be separated and scattered over the dish. The leaves can be used in place of watercress in sandwiches or salads, or chopped and added to dressings and sauces.
The flower buds of the nasturtium plant can be pickled in vinegar and used as a substitute for capers. The seed pods can also be pickled in vinegar and used as a condiment.
In addition to their culinary uses, nasturtiums have been used for medicinal purposes for centuries. The plant is believed to have antibacterial properties and has been used to treat respiratory infections, urinary tract infections, and other ailments.
Overall, nasturtiums are a versatile plant that can be used in a variety of ways. Whether you are using them in the kitchen or for their medicinal properties, they are a valuable addition to any garden.
Additional Considerations for Nasturtiums
Nasturtiums are a great addition to any garden, but there are a few additional considerations to keep in mind when planting and caring for them.
Perennial or Annual?
Nasturtiums are typically grown as annuals, meaning they complete their life cycle in one growing season. However, some varieties of nasturtiums are perennial in warmer climates. If you live in a warm climate and want to grow perennial nasturtiums, be sure to choose a variety that is suitable for your region.
Fertilizer Needs
Nasturtiums do not require rich soil to grow, but they can benefit from occasional fertilization. A balanced fertilizer, such as a 10-10-10 or 20-20-20 blend, can help promote healthy growth and flowering. However, be careful not to over-fertilize, as this can lead to excessive foliage growth and reduced flowering.
Beginner Gardener Friendly
Nasturtiums are a great choice for beginner gardeners, as they are easy to grow and require minimal care. They can be grown in containers or directly in the ground, and do not require any special pruning or training.
Trellis Support
Some varieties of nasturtiums, such as climbing or trailing varieties, may benefit from trellis support. This can help keep the vines off the ground and promote better air circulation, which can reduce the risk of disease. If you choose to grow climbing or trailing nasturtiums, be sure to provide a sturdy trellis or support structure.
Affiliate Links
While there are many great sources for purchasing nasturtium seeds and plants, some gardeners may prefer to shop online. If you choose to purchase nasturtium seeds or plants online, be sure to check for affiliate links. These links can help support the website or blog you are purchasing from, but may also result in a higher price for the consumer. Be sure to compare prices and shop around to find the best deal.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some companion herbs that grow well with nasturtiums?
Nasturtiums grow well with many herbs, including rosemary, thyme, sage, and chamomile. These herbs can help repel pests and attract beneficial insects to your garden.
What are the benefits of adding nasturtiums to your garden?
Nasturtiums are a great addition to any garden. They are easy to grow, attract beneficial insects, and can help repel pests. Nasturtiums also add a pop of colour to your garden with their bright flowers.
What are some companion vegetables that grow well with nasturtiums?
Nasturtiums grow well with many vegetables, including tomatoes, cucumbers, and peppers. They can help repel pests and attract beneficial insects to your garden. Nasturtiums can also act as a living mulch, helping to retain moisture in the soil.
What are some medicinal uses of nasturtiums?
Nasturtiums have been used for centuries for their medicinal properties. They are high in vitamin C and have antibacterial and antifungal properties. Nasturtiums can be used to treat respiratory infections, urinary tract infections, and skin conditions.
How can nasturtiums be incorporated into recipes?
Nasturtiums have a peppery flavour and can be used in a variety of recipes. They can be added to salads, sandwiches, and stir-fries. Nasturtiums can also be used to make a pesto or infused into vinegar.
What are some container ideas for growing nasturtiums?
Nasturtiums are great for container gardening. They can be grown in hanging baskets, window boxes, or pots. Nasturtiums can be combined with other plants, such as herbs or vegetables, to create a beautiful and functional container garden.